Exterior mirror having an attachment member including an approach light

ABSTRACT

An exterior mirror assembly including an attachment member for supporting an approach light. The attachment member interconnects a mirror housing to a vehicle and includes an opening for receiving a lens. Light projects through the lens from the attachment member in order to illuminate a predetermined area in proximity to the vehicle. A light source may be housed within the support member or, alternatively, a light source may be housed interior to the vehicle and a light path transports light from the light source to the lens for projection from the support member.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/525,550, filed Mar. 14, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,572,250, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/124,461, filed Mar. 15, 1999, the entire specifications of which areexpressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Description

The present invention relates to a mirror assembly in general and, moreparticularly, to an exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle including anapproach light which illuminates an area in proximity to the vehicle.

2. Description of Related Art

Vehicle operators have become increasingly concerned about personalsecurity in and around their vehicles. This concern heightens when avehicle operator approaches a vehicle after it has been left unattendedand the operator has been away from the vehicle. Approaching the vehicleoften causes anxiety in the operator, as the operator realizes that anunattended vehicle provides a convenient hiding spot for potentialperpetrators of assaults, robberies, and other personal violations. Anunlit, unattended vehicle provides sufficient cover so that a would-beperpetrator could surprise the vehicle operator and other passengers asthey approach the vehicle. For example, would-be perpetrators may hidealong side, under, behind, or around the operator's vehicle. In parkinglots, would-be perpetrators may seek additional cover not only from theoperator's vehicle, but also from vehicles adjacent to the operator'svehicle. Thus, an increasing need exists to provide additional safety inproximity to vehicles and minimize cover provided to would-beperpetrators by vehicles, particularly at night.

It is well known that security lighting systems minimize the coverprovided by darkness to would-be perpetrators. Many assaults, robberies,and other personal violations committed against vehicle operatorsapproaching their car typically occur at night. It is also well knownthat providing suitable light eliminates many such incidents. Because itis not possible to sufficiently light every parking space of everyparking lot, vehicle designers have endeavored to rely upon the vehicleto provide sufficient light to ward off would-be perpetrators. Manyvehicles include keyless entry systems, which may or may not includeadditional alarm or security systems, which enable the vehicle operatorto illuminate the interior of the vehicle when approaching the vehicle.However, illuminating the interior of the vehicle does not typicallysufficiently illuminate the exterior of the vehicle, thereby enablingthe operator to see would-be perpetrators.

Some systems have attempted to increase the lighting exterior to thevehicle in order to increase the safety margins provided to the operatorand ward off would-be perpetrators. For example, vehicle designers haveplaced lights in mirror housings in order to illuminate the exterior ofthe vehicle. Examples of such systems may be found with reference toU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,371,659; 5,497,305; 4,497,306; 5,669,699; 5,669,704;5,669,705; 5,823,654; and 5,863,116, the disclosures of which are hereinincorporated by reference for their technical discussion. These patentsdiscuss various systems for placing a light in the housing of a mirrorassembly.

The above-referenced patents, however, primarily discuss placing a lightin the housing of the mirror assembly. Typical mirror assemblies includea sail which attaches to a forward portion of the front driver orpassenger side doors. The sail rigidly attaches to a hinge or bracket.The hinge or bracket in turn attaches to a housing which providessupport and protection for a reflective element, such as mirror glass.The housing typically pivots with respect to the bracket so that themirror housing may fold inward to increase safety and selectively reducethe overall width of the vehicle.

While the designs presented in the above-referenced U.S. patents enableillumination of the vehicle exterior, these designs increase vehiclecost and reduce performance of the mirror assembly. In particular,locating the light module in the mirror housing necessarily places moremass of the mirror assembly outboard from the car. This increasedoutboard mass increases the moment exerted by the mirror housing. Theincreased moment correspondingly increases the vibration of the mirror,decreasing the performance due to the vibration. Further, placing alight outboard in the mirror housing requires that wires be routedthrough the hinge to power the light placed in the mirror housing.Routing wires through the hinge that connects the bracket to the housingpresents many design challenges and further complicates the mirrorassembly design. Such wiring again moves weight further outboard andalso requires an additional length of wire to power the light module inthe mirror housing, thereby increasing the cost of the system. Becausethe mirror housing pivots with respect to the supporting sail andbracket, folding the mirror inward varies the angle of illuminationprovided by the light module because the angle of the mirror housingoften varies with respect to the horizontal as the mirror folds inward.Because the mirror housing experiences significant aerodynamic effects,the windstream passing by the mirror housing provides ample opportunityto coat the lens area of a light mounted in the mirror housing with roaddebris, salt, mud, dust, dirt and the like.

Placing a light module in the mirror housing significantly limits theability to seal the light module and electrical wiring from theelements, including water, road salt, dirt, debris, and the like. Mostmirror housings also include an area between the mirror and the mirrorhousing which is not sealed. This area allows water, road salt, dust,dirt, and other debris to enter the interior of the mirror housing andpotentially damage the light housing and accompanying wiring. Theexposed light module placed in the housing must be sealed from theexterior contaminants. Sealing the light module resultantly causes thelight module temperature to increase. The temperature may be reduced bylimiting the output of the light source. This reduced output typicallyreduces the illumination output by the light source. Finally, placing alight module in the housing requires allocation of valuable space thatlimits the structural supports or other components that may be placed inthe housing.

Thus, there is a need to provide an exterior mirror assembly whichilluminates the exterior of the vehicle and improves upon theabove-discussed configuration in which a light is provided within andilluminates from the mirror housing.

This invention is also directed to an exterior rear view mirror assemblyincluding housing and a reflective mirror supported by the housing andarranged in a rearwardly facing direction. A support member has anoutboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to anouter surface of a motor vehicle. The support member includes anopening. A sail attaches to the inboard end of the support member andsecures the support member to the motor vehicle. A light transmittinglens is disposed in the opening of the support member. The lens enableslight to project from an interior of the support member to an exteriorof the support member to illuminate a predetermined area in proximity tothe motor vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention is directed to an exterior rear view mirror assemblyincluding a housing and a reflective mirror supported by the housing andarranged in a rearwardly facing direction. A support member has anoutboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to anouter surface of a motor vehicle. The support member includes anopening. A light transmitting lens is disposed in the opening of thesupport member. The lens enables light to project from an interior ofthe support member to an exterior of the support member to illuminate apredetermined area in proximity to the motor vehicle.

This invention is also directed to an exterior rear view mirror systemincluding a housing and a reflective mirror supported by the housing andarranged in a rearwardly facing direction. A support member has anoutboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to anouter surface of a motor vehicle. The support member includes anopening. A light transmitting lens is disposed in the opening of thesupport member. The lens enables light to project from an interior ofthe support member to an exterior of the support member to illuminate apredetermined area in proximity to the motor vehicle. A light assemblyincludes a housing having a light source therein. The light assemblyhousing is secured within the mirror housing, and the light source isoperable to generate a light for projection through the lens. The lightsource is adjustable to project light through the support in a pluralityof directions. A switch selectively activates the light source. A speedsensor generates a vehicle speed signal that varies in accordance withthe speed of the vehicle. A timer receives the speed signal and receivesan activation signal. The timer actuates the light source in accordancewith the activation signal and the speed signal.

For a more complete understanding of the invention, its objects andadvantages, reference should be made to the following specification andto the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings, which form an integral part of the specification, are tobe read in conjunction therewith, and like reference numerals areemployed to designate identical components in the various views:

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a mirror assembly arranged inaccordance with the principles of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an elevational bottom view of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a mirror assembly showing anapproach light mounted in both portions of the vehicle attachmentmember;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a vehicle showing an exemplary light pattern ofthe mirror assembly of FIGS. 1-4;

FIG. 6 is a left side view of the vehicle showing an exemplary lightpattern of the mirror assembly of FIGS. 1-4;

FIG. 7 is a right side view of the vehicle showing an exemplary lightpattern of the mirror of FIGS. 1-4 configured for attachment to theright side of a vehicle;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a mirror assembly having anapproach light in the sail portion of attachment member;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the mirror assembly of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is an alternative configuration for disposing an approach lightin the sail portion of the attachment member;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of an alternative configurationshowing the approach light in both the support arm portion and the sailportion of the attachment member;

FIG. 12 is a vertical sectional view of the mirror bracket of FIG. 1showing an approach light module mounted in the projecting support armportion of the attachment member;

FIG. 13 is a vertical sectional view of a mirror assembly having a lightpath for providing light to the support arm portion of the attachmentmember;

FIG. 14 is a vertical sectional view of a mirror assembly having a lightpath formed integral to the attachment member;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an approach light module mounted in thesupport arm portion of the attachment member;

FIG. 16 is a vertical sectional view of the approach light module ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an approach light module mounted in thesupport arm portion of the attachment member including a temperaturesensor;

FIG. 18 is a partial vertical sectional view of the approach lightmodule of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of a mirror assembly having anilluminable display area formed on the support arm portion of theattachment member;

FIG. 20 is a vertical sectional view of an approach light module mountedin the support arm portion of the attachment member in which the lightoutput by the module may be directed by the vehicle operator;

FIG. 21 is a perspective bottom view of a mirror assembly showing aknockout formed in the support arm portion of the attachment member toenable optional installation of an approach light module;

FIG. 22 is a vertical sectional view of the support arm portion of theattachment member showing slidably recessed reflectors so that lightoutput from the support arm portion may be reflected in a predetermineddirection;

FIG. 23 is a vertical sectional view of the support arm portion of theattachment member showing a permanent reflector to minimize illuminationfrom the support arm portion in a predetermined direction;

FIG. 24 is a vertical sectional view of the support arm portion of theattachment member showing an electronic module which may function as atransmitter or receiver of electromagnetic signals;

FIG. 25 is a block diagram of a possible control circuit for controllingoperation of the approach light.

FIG. 26 is a circuit diagram for a control circuit for an approach lighthaving a time-out function;

FIG. 27 is a control circuit for an approach light having a time-outfunction in which the time-out period varies in accordance with thevehicle speed; and

FIG. 28 is a front perspective view of a mirror assembly having aplurality of lights mounted in the attachment member.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the figures, and in particular FIGS. 1-3, a mirrorassembly 10 includes a housing 12 which houses and supports a reflectiveelement 14, such as mirror glass. Mirror assembly 10 of the presentinvention will be described with respect to an exterior driver side rearview mirror which enables the vehicle operator to view an area besideand rearward with respect to the vehicle. Housing 12 connects to anattachment member 16 including a sail portion 18 and an integral,laterally projecting support arm or bracket portion 20. Theinterconnection between housing 12 and attachment member 16 enableshousing 12 to pivot with respect to the support arm portion 20.Particularly, housing 12 pivots rearward and forward with respect tosupport arm portion 20. Support arm portion 20 is integrally formed withsail portion 18 which attaches to a vehicle 40 as shown in FIGS. 5-7.Sail portion 18 attaches to vehicle 40 via threaded posts or otherconnectors and is typically a one or two-piece component, as isconventional in the art. Mirror assembly 10 typically attaches to aforward portion of either the driver or passenger side doors of vehicle40. As will also be described herein, a seal is typically interposedbetween sail portion 18 and vehicle 40 to isolate the interior ofvehicle 40 from the exterior in the area where sail portion 18 connectsto vehicle 40.

With respect to a particular feature of the present invention, mirrorassembly 10 includes an approach light 22 located in a bottom surface 24of support arm portion 20. Approach light 22 is typically disposed in anopening 26 of bottom surface 24. Approach light 22 may be implementedusing any of a number of light sources, including light modules, lightemitting diodes (LEDs), light paths, light pipes, fiber optic cables,and the like which will be described further herein.

FIG. 4 depicts an alternative configuration for approach light 22 andopening 26 formed in bottom surface 24 of support arm portion 20. Inparticular, opening 26 and approach light 22 are formed further inboardthan approach light 22 of FIGS. 1-3. Approach light 22 extends frombottom surface 24 of support arm portion 20 into sail portion 18 andpartially curves downward to follow the contour of the integral sailportion 18 and support arm portion 20 of attachment member 16.

Approach light 22 typically illuminates an area in proximity to vehicle40 as shown in FIGS. 5-7. FIGS. 5-7 depict a vehicle 40 having a driverside 28 and a passenger side 30. Driver side 28 includes a driver sidemirror assembly 32, and passenger side 30 includes a passenger sidemirror assembly 34. Each of driver side mirror assembly 32 and passengerside mirror assembly 34 are configured as described above with respectto mirror assembly 10. Driver side mirror assembly and passenger sidemirror assembly 34 include an approach light 22 which illuminates anarea or zone generally adjacent the respective mirror assemblies 32, 34in proximity to the respective sides 28, 30 of vehicle 40. This area mayoptionally include illuminating at least a portion of the side ofvehicle 40. Specifically, approach light 22 of driver side mirrorassembly 32 illuminates an area 36 generally beneath driver side mirrorassembly 32. Similarly, approach light 22 of passenger side mirrorassembly 34 illuminates an area 38 generally beneath passenger sidemirror assembly 34 in proximity to passenger side 30. As will beunderstood by those skilled in the art, the direction and dispersion ofapproach light 22 may be varied in order to correspondingly vary therespective areas 36, 38 in order to meet various vehicle safetyrequirements and to provide suitable lighting.

FIGS. 8 and 9 depict an alternate embodiment for placing an approachlight in the mirror assembly. Mirror assembly 50 includes an approachlight 52 formed in the sail portion 54 of attachment member 48. Mirrorassembly 50 is configured similarly to mirror assembly 10 of FIGS. 1-3except approach light 22 is placed in sail portion 54 rather thansupport arm portion 56. Mirror assembly 50 includes a mirror housing 58for housing and supporting a reflective element 60. Mirror housing 58pivotally connects to support arm portion 56 as described above withrespect to FIGS. 1-3. Support arm portion 56 in turn attaches to sailportion 54. Sail portion 54 mounts to the vehicle 40 of FIGS. 5-7, asdescribed above with respect to FIGS. 1-3. Approach light 52 may beimplementing using any of a number of light sources, including lightmodules, LEDs light paths, and other light modules, many of which willbe described further herein. Approach light 52 may be configured toilluminate areas adjacent vehicle 40 similarly to those areas asdescribed above with respect to FIGS. 5-7.

FIG. 10 depicts an alternate configuration for placing an approach lightin sail portion 54 of attachment member 48. In particular, approachlight 52 is formed to generally coincide with a forward section 49 ofsail portion 54. As shown in FIG. 10, approach light 52 generallyconsumes substantially all of the area forward of support arm portion 56of attachment member 48. Such a configuration provides a particularlydecorative appearance for mirror assembly 50 and vehicle 40.

Yet another alternative configuration for placing an approach light inattachment member 48 may be found with respect to FIG. 11. Approachlight 52 is formed to generally coincide with a forward vertical wall 51of support arm portion 56 and a vertical side wall 53 of sail portion54. Approach light 52 follows the contours of the integral intersectionbetween support arm portion 56 and sail portion 54 of attachment member48. In this configuration, approach light 52 offers illuminationproperties as described above and also offers an improved, decorativeappearance and improved aerodynamic shape.

FIG. 12 shows a sectional view of support arm portion 20 of FIGS. 1-3including approach light module 66. Approach light module 66 forms anintegral unit including a case, a reflector, and a lens, mounted insupport arm portion 20. A wiring harness 68 provides electrical power toapproach light module 66 from electrical connections located withinvehicle 40. Harness 68 typically includes negative and positiveelectrical leads for providing electrical power to a light source formedin approach light module 66. Approach light module 66 mounts in opening26 of support arm portion 20 using snap connectors 64. Support armportion 20 engages snap connectors 64 to enable efficient and positiveconnection of approach light module 66 to support arm portion 20.Approach light module 66 preferably includes a shape formed to coincidewith the shape of opening 26 formed in support arm portion 20 to enableapproach light module 66 to seal opening 26. It will be understood byone skilled in the art that a similarly configured approach light module66 may be installed into opening 62 of sail portion 54 so that approachlight module 66 may be adapted for application in mirror assembly 50.

FIG. 12 depicts one configuration for providing light to opening 26 ofsupport arm portion 20. An alternative configuration for providing lightto opening 26 may be found with respect to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 depicts asectional view of support arm portion 20 of mirror assembly 70 includinga light path or pipe 72 for transporting light from an inboard portionof vehicle 40 through opening 26. Mirror assembly 70 is similarlyconfigured to mirror assembly 10 of FIGS. 1-3. Particularly, mirrorassembly 70 includes a housing 12 for housing and supporting areflective element. Housing 12 pivotally connects to support arm portion20 which in turn connects to sail portion 18. Sail portion 18 ofattachment member 16 attaches to vehicle 40 to mount the mirror assembly70 to vehicle 40. A seal 78 interposed between sail portion 18 andvehicle 40 seals the vehicle interior from the vehicle exterior toprevent water from entering vehicle 40 and to reduce wind noise.

Mirror assembly 70 includes a light path or pipe 72. A first end 74 oflight path or pipe 72 is located in proximity to opening 26 of supportarm portion 20. From first end 74, light path or pipe 72 traversessupport arm portion 20 and sail portion 18 to a second end 76 locatedinboard of sail portion 18. Second end 76 also traverses seal 78 andterminates inboard of seal 78. Second end 76 of light path or pipe 72includes a socket 80 which receives a connector 82. Connector 82 housesa light source 84 on one end and includes electrical leads 86 forproviding electrical power to light source 84. Socket 80 and connector82 are preferably molded from a plastic material.

Light path or light pipe 72 may assume any of a number of structuresincluding clear, molded plastic, a molded structure lined withreflective material, or a molded material with internal metalizing. FIG.13 provides a particular advantage of moving light source 84 andelectrical connector 82 inboard of seal 78, thereby reducing exposure oflight source 84 and connector 82 to water, road salt, dirt, debris, andother elements exterior to the vehicle. Further, a shorter electricalharness provides electrical power to the light source, thereby reducingcosts. One skilled in the art will recognize that a similarconfiguration provides light to opening 62 of mirror assembly 50 of FIG.8. The light source could also be placed in a centralized locationwithin the vehicle, and a distributed lighting system could supply lightfrom the light source to various locations.

A particularly advantageous feature of the configuration of FIG. 13 isthat by placing light source 84 inboard, light source 84 need not besealed within an enclosure. Consequently, light source 84 may be ventedto the interior of the vehicle to provide significantly greater coolingthan a sealed light source enclosure as would necessarily be included inapproach lights formed in housing 12. Venting light source 84 towardsthe interior of the vehicle enables installation of a bulb thatgenerates greater heat, which typically implies that the light sourceoutputs brighter light. This brighter light translates into improvedlighting output from approach light 22 formed in opening 26.Alternatively, one skilled in the art will recognize that in addition tothe light path or light pipe 72 described herein, candidate lightsources include light bulbs, light emitting diodes (LED's) fiber opticlight pipes, reflective light pipes, fiber optic cables, andconventional light bulbs. Conventional light bulbs include bulbs havingelectrical contacts at one end, bulbs having electrical contacts ateither end, and other combined configurations for such bulbs. Thealternatives described herein with respect to venting the light source,as compared to sealing the light source, apply to each of theembodiments described herein.

FIG. 14 shows a portion of a mirror assembly 90 configured similarly tomirror assembly 70 of FIG. 13. Mirror assembly 90 differs from mirrorassembly 70 in that mirror assembly 90 includes a light pipe or lightpath which is integrally molded with attachment member 16 to provideboth light transmission properties and structural support for mirrorassembly 90. The light pipe or light path 92 includes a first end 94terminating in proximity to opening 26. Light pipe or path 90 traversessupport arm portion 20 and sail portion 18 and terminates at a secondend 96. As shown, light path or pipe 92 is integrally molded as part ofattachment member 16. Second end 96 of light pipe 92 extends inboard ofseal 98. This provides the benefits as described above of moving thelight source and electrical connections inboard. Second end 96 of lightpipe 92 is preferably molded to provide a receptacle for a connector100, such as a bayonet connector, which supports light source 102. Asdiscussed above, light path 92 integrally forms part of attachmentmember 16. Light path 92 preferably is formed as a molded portion, whichmay be clear or may be lined with metalizing or reflective foil. Lightpath 92 may be implemented using fiber optic light pipes, reflectivelight pipes, and fiber optic cables. One skilled in the art willrecognize that a similar configuration provides light to opening 62 ofmirror assembly 50.

FIGS. 15 and 16 show an approach light module as may be used in theabove described embodiments. Approach light module 110 includes a caseor shell 112. Case 112 encloses a reflector 114 formed to fit withincase 112. Reflector 114 includes a socket 108, which may be threaded,for receiving a connector 118, such as a bayonet connector, whichsupports and provides power to a light source 120. When electrical poweris applied to light source 120, light source 120 outputs light which isreflected by reflector 114 and exits approach light module 110 throughlens 122. Lens 122 may include a plurality of prisms 106 in order todisperse light output by light source 120 in any of a number of various,predetermined directions. An electrical wiring harness 124 provideselectrical power to light source 120 in order to activate light source120. Case 112, lens 122, and socket 108 preferably cooperate to sealapproach light module 110 from outside elements. Approach light module110 mounts within opening 26 of mirror assembly 10 using tabs 126 formedon an inboard section 128 and tabs 130 formed on an outboard section 132of approach light module 110. Tabs 126 and 130 cooperate with the edgeof opening 26 or corresponding catches formed in opening 26 of supportarm portion 20.

In an alternative configuration, approach light module 110 receives aconnector for supporting light source 120. The side of connectoropposite light source 120 supports a male portion of an electricalsocket. A female connector portion of an electrical socket formedintegrally with support arm portion 20 receives the male portion of theelectrical socket formed in connector 118. The female portion of thesocket may be formed integral with a bayonet connector and mounted insupport arm portion 20. In this manner, the inboard electricalconnection provides a retaining force for approach light module 110 insupport arm portion 20.

FIGS. 17 and 18 depict an alternate embodiment of an approach lightmodule 140. Approach light module 140 includes a temperature sensor 142.Approach light module 140 is substantially as described above withrespect to approach light module 110. Temperature sensor 142 mounts to atang 144 formed external to and integral with case 112. Temperaturesensor 142 preferably comprises a thermister which has a resistance thatvaries in accordance with ambient temperature. A wiring harness 146provides electrical connections to temperature sensor 142. Theresistance through temperature sensor 142 is monitored by an electricalcircuit which generates an output in accordance with the temperaturesensed by temperature sensor 142. In this manner, approach light module140 provides a dual function of illuminating the area in proximity tothe mirror and also provides a convenient, external position fortemperature sensor 142.

FIG. 19 depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention, namely,placing translucent advertising indicia or the like on support armportion 20 and illuminating such indicia using reflected or directedlight from approach light 22. Indicia 152 may include lettering 154.Indicia 152 preferably enables transmission of light therethrough inorder to illuminate indicia 152. Illuminating light may be providedusing the light paths or pipes as described above routed from a lightsource as described above to an interior portion of indicia 152 togenerate illumination generally outward from support arm portion 20.Such light paths or pipes have been described above with respect toFIGS. 13 and 14. Alternatively, a light path may be routed from any ofthe approach light modules described above internally to indicia 152 inorder to illuminate indicia 152. Indicia 152 may include coloredlettering in order to draw additional attention to the advertisingindicia.

FIG. 20 depicts yet another feature of the present invention. It may bedesirable to provide an adjustable approach light module 160 mounted inopening 26 of support arm portion 20. In particular, adjustable approachlight module 160 includes a reflector 162 mounted within a case or shell164. Reflector 162 supports a light source 166 mounted within an opening168 using a connector 170, such as a bayonet connector. Reflector 162pivots within case 164 in order to reflect light from light source 166in a predetermined direction. In a preferred embodiment, linkage 172attaches to reflector 162 and displaces reflector 162 in accordance withinput from a control member 174 mounted inboard on the vehicle foradjustment by the vehicle operator. One of ordinary skill in the artwill recognize that other adjustment means may be utilized to directillumination from light source 166. Adjustable approach light module 160thus enables directionalization of the light output from approach lightmodule 160 in order to illuminate predetermined areas either rearward,forward, or outboard of a nominal zone of illumination provided byadjustable approach light module 160.

In addition to providing an approach light as described with respect toFIG. 20, one skilled in the art will recognize that other configurationsfor directing light from approach light 22 and approach light 52 may beimplemented. In particular, in an approach light module such asdescribed with respect to FIGS. 15 and 16, the approach light module maybe detachable from support arm portion 20 or sail portion 54 so that theoperator may use the approach light module as a hand held light, such asa flashlight. One skilled in the art will recognize that such aconfiguration may be implemented by lengthening a wire harness thatsupplies power to the approach light module. The lengthened, wireharness may be extended from support arm portion 20 and sail portion 54in order to provide such a feature.

In some situations, vehicle manufacturers may prefer not to offer anapproach light module as a factory installed option on the vehicle.Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide flexibility in the mirrorassembly for installing an approach light as an aftermarket option. FIG.21 depicts mirror assembly 10 configured for installation of approachlight 22 as an aftermarket option. When offering mirror assembly 10 asan aftermarket option, a knockout or cover 180 sealably covers opening26 yet enables convenient removal for installation of approach light 22.Knockout 180 includes tabs 182 which engage opening 26. The embodimentof the knockout 180 described herein may be configured for applicationon any of the approach light configurations described above.

As an alternative, or in addition to, implementation of an adjustableapproach light module 160 and similar configurations, as describedabove, the approach light may remain fixed, and illumination from theapproach light module may be directed through use of adjustablereflectors. With particular reference to FIG. 22, approach light 22 isshown in attachment member 16. An adjustable reflector 188 is preferablyslidably mounted forward of approach light 22, and an adjustablereflector 190 is preferably slidably mounted rearward of approach light22. Reflector 188 includes a rearward reflective surface 192, andreflector 190 includes a forward reflective surface 194. Each reflector188, 190 may be displaced to a plurality of positions from a fullyrecessed position shown in solid lines to a fully extended positionshown in phantom. Each reflector 188, 190 preferably includes aplurality of tabs or stops 200 which provide variable detent positionsintermediate to and including recessed position 196 and extendedposition 198. By variably positioning reflectors 188 and 190, lightoutput by approach light 22 may be reflected in a respective rearward orforward direction. This provides additional light illuminating theforward or rearward portions of the vehicle, as may be useful forchanging a tire or illuminating particular areas in various parkingfacilities. It will be understood by one skilled in the art that thereflectors described herein with respect to FIG. 22 may be implementedin any of the approach light configurations described herein.

In addition to positionable reflectors 188, 190, it may be desirable todirect illumination from approach light 22 in a predetermined directionin particular situations. Such a requirement may exist to meet vehiclesafety standards of particular countries. Accordingly, FIG. 23 depicts amirror assembly 10 including an approach light 22 having a louver 206including a reflective surface 208 mounted in proximity to approachlight 22. Light output by approach light 22 reflects off of reflectivesurface 208 in a predetermined direction, substantially restrictingapproach light from illuminating a direction beyond louver 206. Louver206 may be integrally molded with attachment member 16 or othercomponents of mirror assembly 10. Alternatively, louver 206 may be anindividual component having tabs or tangs (not shown) corresponding toand inserted into mounting holes 210 formed in support arm portion 20,sail portion 18, or other suitable mirror assembly component. Thus, byproviding mounting holes 210 around approach light 22, louver 206 may beselectively installed in order to meet safety standards of a particularcountry where a vehicle is most likely to be sold.

In addition to the many configurations described herein, mirror assembly10 provides a convenient, outboard location for mounting componentswhich operate most efficiently when placed outboard of the vehicle.Further, because a wiring harness must be routed to supply electricalpower to mirror assembly 10, mirror assembly 10 may also be used tohouse other electronic components, particularly those which functionbest outboard of the vehicle. FIG. 24 depicts a sectional view of mirrorassembly 10 including an approach light 22 and also including atransceiver 220. Transceiver 220 may transmit and/or receiveelectromagnetic signal for any of the number of remote systems,including infrared remote (IR) systems, global positioning systems(GPS), a centralized vehicle alert system, and the like. Transceiver 220interconnects to a control module, described herein, via a wiringharness. The wiring harness may be integrally formed with wiring forpowering approach light 22.

FIG. 25 depicts a control circuit for activating approach light 22.Approach light 22 receives input from an approach light controller 224.Approach light controller 224 may be integral with a body or othervehicle controller or may operate independently. Approach lightcontroller receives input signals provided on vehicle data bus 226.Altematively, approach light controller may receive signals individuallyfrom any of a number of inputs, rather than detecting signals placed onvehicle data bus 226.

Any of a number of components can place signals on vehicle data bus. Forexample, receiver 228 receives input signals, such as IR signals, fromtransmitter 230 such as a key FOB. When receiving a signal fromtransmitter 230, receiver 228 outputs a signal on vehicle data bus 226.Any of a number of components may place information on vehicle data bus226 for evaluation by approach light controller 224. For example, thestate of the vehicle door lock 232 generates one or more signals onvehicle data bus 226 when the doors are in either of a locked orunlocked state. Similarly, the state of interior lights 234, hazardlights 236, and reverse lights 238 each generates a separate signaloutput on vehicle data bus 226. The position of housing 12 with respectto support arm portion 20 activates a sensor 240 which generates asignal on vehicle data bus 226. The position of the hood or trunkactivates a sensor 242 which generates at least one signal output onvehicle data bus 226. An approach light switch 244 for manual activationof approach light 22 also outputs a signal on vehicle data bus 226. Theposition of gear selector 246 also generates a signal on vehicle databus 226. A timer 248 may be activated in accordance with a predeterminedevent and outputs a signal on vehicle data bus 226 after apredetermined, elapsed time. A proximity sensor 250 generates a signalon vehicle data bus 226 in accordance with proximity of individuals tothe vehicle. Further, an alarm system 252 in any of a number ofpredetermined states generates at least one output signal on vehicledata bus 226. The above-described signals are output on vehicle data bus226 and input to approach light controller 224. Approach lightcontroller may have any of a number of modes for determining activationof approach light 22 in accordance with the above-described signals.

Two exemplary modes of operation for the circuit of FIG. 25 will bedescribed. In a first mode of operation, actuation of one or morevehicle door locks 232 causes corresponding actuation of approach light22. Such actuation occurs regardless of whether the vehicle is inmotion. Particularly, during operation of the vehicle, approach light 22may be activated using approach light switch 244. Such activation mayoccur in response to the operator desiring to view street signs,mailboxes, and individuals approaching the vehicle.

FIG. 26 depicts a control circuit for a particular implementation foractivating approach light 22 of the present invention. Control circuit256 represents a simplified embodiment of the circuit of FIG. 25.Control circuit 256 includes a transmitter 258, such as a key FOB whichoutputs a signal through antenna 260. Antenna 260 outputs anelectromagnetic signal received by antenna 262 and input to receiver238. Receiver 264 electronically communicates with timer 266. Uponreceipt of an activation signal from transmitter 258, receiver 264supplies an activation signal to timer 266. Upon receipt of theactivation signal, timer 266 outputs an electrical signal to activateapproach light 22. Timer 266 maintains activation of approach light 22for a predetermined time period.

Following the predetermined time period, timer 266 deactivates approachlight 22 by removing the electrical energy supplied to approach light22. The predetermined time period for which timer 266 activates approachlight 22 may vary in accordance with specific design considerations.Preferably, the predetermined time period is of a duration sufficient sothat an operator approaching the car can activate approach light 22 andso that approach light 22 remains activated so that the operator canenter the vehicle and lock the vehicle to prevent outside intrusion.This time period may be extended to enable the operator additional timeto start the vehicle.

FIG. 27 depicts a control circuit 270 for activating approach light 22.Control circuit 270 operates similarly as control circuit 256 describedabove with respect to FIG. 26. Control circuit 270, however, utilizes avehicle speed signal to vary the timeout period for approach light 22.As described above, control circuit 270 includes a transmitter 258 whichoutputs an electromagnetic signal through antenna 260. Antenna 262detects the electromagnetic signal output by antenna 260 and provides aninput signal to receiver 264. Upon receipt of the input signal, receiver264 sends an activation signal to timer 266. Timer 266 also receives aspeed signal from input line 272. A controller 274, such as a vehiclecontroller, an engine controller, a transmission controller, or thelike, outputs a speed signal on input line 272 in accordance withelectrical signal received from speed sensor 276. The speed signal oninput line 272 varies in accordance with the vehicle speed.

Timer 266 receives the speed signal from controller 248 and theactivation signal from receiver 264. Timer 266 activates approach light22 in accordance with the activation signal and speed signal. Forexample, if timer 266 receives an activation signal and the speed signalindicates that the vehicle moves at less than a predetermined speed,timer 266 supplies electrical power to approach light 22 for apredetermined time period. Such time period may be as described abovewith respect to FIG. 26. If timer 266 detects that the speed signal oninput line 272 indicates a vehicle speed above the predeterminedthreshold, timer 266 supplies power to approach light 22 for apredetermined time period much shorter than the predetermined timeperiod when the vehicle is less than the threshold. For example, for avehicle speed less than 10 miles per hour (MPH), timer 266 may activateapproach light 22 for, by way of example, 30 seconds. When timer 266detects an activation signal and determines that the vehicle speedexceeds, for example, 30 MPH, timer 266 may activate approach light 22for, by way of example, 1 or 2 seconds. FIG. 27 thus discloses a controlcircuit 270 having a variable timeout function for controlling approachlight 22. The variable timeout function provides safer operation ofapproach light 22 by limiting the activation period for approach light22 when the vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined threshold.

FIG. 28 depicts yet another embodiment of a mirror assembly 280. Mirrorassembly 280 of FIG. 28 includes a plurality of lights mounted invehicle attachment member 16. Mirror assembly 280 is configuredsimilarly to mirror assembly 10 if FIGS. 1-3. Mirror assembly 280includes a housing 12 for supporting and housing a reflective element14. Housing 12 attaches to vehicle 40 via a vehicle attachment member16. Vehicle attachment member includes sail portion 18 and support armportion 20, all of which have been described herein. Of particularinterest, FIG. 28 includes a plurality of lights mounted in vehicleattachment member 16. In this embodiment the lights are mounted in sailportion 18. The plurality of lights comprises three lights.

A turning light 282 provides illumination while turning. Turning light282 preferably operates in conjunction with the vehicle turn indicatorsto illuminate the direction in which the vehicle operator intends toturn or the direction in which the operator desires to change lanes.Turning light 282 preferably provides either white or amber illuminationin accordance with various designs and safety regulation considerations.

A center light 284 provides single or dual purpose lighting and isdisposed rearward of turning light 282. Center light 282 preferablyincludes a low trajectory light activated by a remote security system.Activation of a security system, such as through an IR transmitter orother electromagnetic transmitter as in a key FOB, activates lowtrajectory lamp of center light 284. Low trajectory light preferablyilluminates areas beneath mirror assembly 280 and adjacent vehicle 40.Center light 284 also preferably includes a high trajectory light whichilluminates a zone perpendicular to vehicle 40. Preferably, the vehicleoperator activates the high trajectory beam from within or remotely fromthe vehicle. The high trajectory beam preferably illuminates a zonewhich facilitates reading mail boxes, street addresses, and streetsigns.

A rear light 286 is disposed rearward of center light 284. Rear light286 preferably illuminates a zone generally rearward of mirror assembly10. Rear light 286 preferably is activated directly by the driver or bythe vehicle security system in response to an individual approaching theside window. Rear light 286 thus preferably, primarily illuminates azone coincident with and slightly above the front and rear side windowsto provide maximum illumination of the face of an individual approachingthe vehicle.

The embodiments of the mirror assembly described herein provide severalbeneficial features. Removing the light from the housing frees upadditional space in the housing so that additional support structuresand components can be included in the housing. The above-describedinvention provides substantial flexibility in determining the desiredplacement of the approach light and its light source within theattachment member. Relocating the light source from the housing furtherinboard to the attachment member reduces the mass in the mirror housing,thereby improving the performance of the mirror by reducing vibration ofthe reflective element. Further, placing the approach light furtherinboard in the attachment reduces the length of the wiring harness forpowering the approach light, thereby further reducing weight and cost ofthe vehicle. The above-described positions of the approach light,whether support arm portion-mounted or sail portion-mounted also provideimproved serviceability. Further yet, locating the approach light in theattachment member enables the approach light to maintain the lightpattern regardless of the position of the mirror housing, whether foldedinboard or unfolded outboard. This feature becomes particularly relevantwhen maneuvering in close quarters when illuminating the side areas ofthe vehicle is important and the housing may be folded inboard. Furtheryet, placement of the lens in the attachment member reduces the airflowover the lens, thereby providing a cleaner lens during operation. Theabove-described invention also provides a better seal for the approachlight, thereby limiting dirt, debris, water, and road salt which couldinhibit performance of the approach light. Further, by providingreflectors for better directing illumination from the approach lighteither forward or rearward, additional portions of the vehicle may beilluminated in order to facilitate, for example, changing tires at nighton the side of the road. The above-described approach light alsoprovides additional features of facilitating vehicle identification in aparking lot and also optionally provides an alarm beacon indicating tothe approaching operator that security of the vehicle may have beencomprised.

While specific embodiments have been shown and described in detail toillustrate the principles of the present invention, it will beunderstood that the invention may be embodied otherwise withoutdeparting from such principles. For example, one skilled in the art willreadily recognize from such discussion and from the accompanyingdrawings and claims that various changes, modifications and variationscan be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention as described in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An exterior rear view mirror assembly comprising:a housing; a reflective mirror supported by the housing and arranged ina rearwardly facing direction; a support member having an outboard endattached to the housing and an inboard end secured to an outer surfaceof a motor vehicle, the support member including an area defining anopening formed therein; and a selectively releasable cover member beingselectively operable to engage at least a portion of a surface of theopening so as to substantially cover the opening.
 2. The inventionaccording to claim 1, further comprising a light source secured withinthe support member, the light source being operable to generate a lightfor projection through the opening, the light source being selectivelyoperable to adjust the projected light in a plurality of directions. 3.The invention according to claim 2, further comprising a sail attachedto the inboard end of the support member, the sail securing the supportmember to the motor vehicle.
 4. The invention according to claim 3,further comprising an environmental seal formed between the motorvehicle and the sail, wherein the light assembly housing is locatedinboard of the seal.
 5. The invention according to claim 1, furthercomprising a light path traversing between the opening and the lightsource, the light path transporting light between the light source andthe opening.
 6. The invention according to claim 5, wherein the covermember includes at least one engagement member for engaging at least aportion of a surface of the opening.
 7. The invention according to claim1, wherein the cover member has a surface contour substantiallycorresponding to a surface contour in proximity to the opening.
 8. Theinvention according to claim 1, wherein the cover member issubstantially opaque.
 9. An exterior rear view mirror assemblycomprising: a housing; a reflective mirror supported by the housing andarranged in a rearwardly facing direction; a support member having anoutboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to anouter surface of a motor vehicle, the support member including an areadefining an opening formed therein; a light source secured within thesupport member, the light source being operable to generate a light forprojection through the opening, the light source being selectivelyoperable to adjust the projected light in a plurality of directions; anda selectively releasable cover member being selectively operable toengage at least a portion of a surface of the opening so as tosubstantially cover the opening.
 10. The invention according to claim 9,further comprising a sail attached to the inboard end of the supportmember, the sail securing the support member to the motor vehicle. 11.The invention according to claim 10, further comprising an environmentalseal formed between the motor vehicle and the sail, wherein the lightassembly housing is located inboard of the seal.
 12. The inventionaccording to claim 9, further comprising a light path traversing betweenthe opening and the light source, the light path transporting lightbetween the light source and the opening.
 13. The invention according toclaim 12, wherein the cover member includes at least one engagementmember for engaging at least a portion of a surface of the opening. 14.The invention according to claim 9, wherein the cover member has asurface contour substantially corresponding to a surface contour inproximity to the opening.
 15. The invention according to claim 9,wherein the cover member is substantially opaque.
 16. An exterior rearview mirror assembly comprising: a housing; a reflective mirrorsupported by the housing and arranged in a rearwardly facing direction;a support member having an outboard end attached to the housing and aninboard end secured to an outer surface of a motor vehicle, the supportmember including an area defining an opening formed therein; a sailattached to the inboard end of the support member, the sail securing thesupport member to the motor vehicle; a light source secured within thesupport member, the light source being operable to generate a light forprojection through the opening, the light source being selectivelyoperable to adjust the projected light in a plurality of directions. 17.The invention according to claim 16, further comprising an environmentalseal formed between the motor vehicle and the sail, wherein the lightassembly housing is located inboard of the seal.
 18. The inventionaccording to claim 16, further comprising a light path traversingbetween the opening and the light source, the light path transportinglight between the light source and the opening.
 19. The inventionaccording to claim 18, wherein the cover member includes at least oneengagement member for engaging at least a portion of a surface of theopening.
 20. The invention according to claim 16, wherein the covermember has a surface contour substantially corresponding to a surfacecontour in proximity to the opening.
 21. The invention according toclaim 16, wherein the cover member is substantially opaque.